Manchester United planning £80m raid for Premier League midfielder

Manchester United are reportedly preparing a transfer proposal for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice as they seek to improve their options in the centre of the park.

The England international only signed a long-term deal with the Hammers last year but this has not ceased the speculation regarding his future with the east London side.

According to Goal.com, the Red Devils have identified Rice as the priority target to bolster the midfield and they are prepared to come up with an offer worth £80m to prise him away from the Hammers.

It is added that the Mancunian giants will initially make the move at the turn of the year but they are prepared to wait until next summer, should the Hammers reject a mid-season transfer.

Rice, who has come through the Hammers academy, has racked nearly 85 appearances. He has also cemented his spot as a regular for the Three Lions since March 2019.